Obedience training is
the foundation upon which all canine activities are based, whether
conformation, agility, tracking, search & rescue, service dogs, fieldwork,
etc.

In 1933, when AKC Obedience competition began, the concept behind obedience
training was to develop a very close working relationship between human beings
and dogs, while demonstrating the usefulness and enthusiasm of dogs. This
concept remains as important today as it was when the program was developed.

There are several levels of obedience, such as the long-standing classes of
Novice (CD, Open (CDX) and Utility (UD). A higher level of competition was
added in recent years, which includes Utility Excellent (UDX) and Obedience
Trial Champion (OTCH). The newest title is to be awarded to the winning dog at
the National Obedience Invitational. The dog that wins this AKC National
Obedience Invitational becomes the National Obedience Champion for the year.
This is the only dog that can carry that distinction.

AKC Obedience Trials were developed to foster training, as well as, to
demonstrate dogs' willingness, capabilities and enjoyment of working with and
very closely with humans.